Missouri Ag News Headlines Funding Opportunities Available to Prevent Water Pollution Missouri Ag Connection - 09/17/2009 The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for project funding that will protect Missouri's waters from nonpoint source pollution. These nonpoint source grants, often referred to as 319 grants, are provided through section 319 of the federal Clean Water Act. Nonpoint source pollution occurs when pollution is released from multiple indeterminate locations making the sources difficult to identify and control. For instance, storm water runoff, snowmelt and irrigation can carry pollutants like garden fertilizers, construction debris, sediment and pesticides into nearby waters. Educational institutions, local governments and not-for-profit organizations are eligible for the funding. Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $1 million and projects can last up to four years. Applications are due by Jan. 15, 2010. Approximately 75 percent of the funding will be provided to eligible projects in selected watersheds and will address nonpoint source pollution through information, education, demonstration, implementation or technical assistance. Projects that improve riparian habitat along stream banks, include specific water quality monitoring, or have a atershed-based approach to protecting rivers, lakes and streams are also eligible. (Research projects are not eligible.) The remaining 25 percent of the available funding will assist eligible nonpoint source projects throughout the state. Funding for the grant program comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The Department is committed to working closely with communities and businesses to assist with funding efforts that improve water quality in Missouri as well as provide a financial savings. Copyright © 2010 - USAgNet.com. All Rights Reserved.